The Lakeside Clothes Closet

How did the Clothes Closet ministry begin?

I started working in the office in August 2010. With the office job came the food pantry. When clients came in for food, they asked if we had a clothing pantry. We did not have one. Early in 2012, I came to work to find the pews outside my office full of clothes. As it turned out, one of our members passed away and the family wanted to donate the clothes to the church. No one seemed to know what to do with them. They sat on the pews for a couple weeks. I prayed about what to do with the clothing. The Lord led me to ask the elders if we could use a room upstairs and start a clothing pantry. They gave me permission and we have been upstairs ever since. It has expanded beyond my dreams and we have helped more people than we imagined.

Why does the Clothes Closet exist?

Jesus taught us that we are to care for those who lack basic daily necessities, to demonstrate concrete compassion for those in need. Many people in our community have a real need for clothing and we are trying to help them with a little extra assistance.

Who is the Clothes Closet designed to help?

Our goal is to encourage and support those who are seeking a little help whether they are on disability, low income or need clothes for an interview. Basically we are here to help anyone who needs it. We do not pick and choose shoppers. We try to be gracious and helpful to all. We are currently working with or building relationships with Every Woman's Place, Health West, Love INC., The Hope Project and The Department of Health & Human Services. We are listed on the 211 and Every Woman's Place’s websites.

Where do the clothes come from?

They come from outside donors who have a desire to help those in need. People who stop at Every Woman's Place are directed to us, as we are now listed as Every Woman's Place drop off site. We hand out flyers to those who drop off clothing and ask them to share about our organization. Everything is done by word of mouth.

Who makes it all happen?

Leadership gave me permission to start the pantry in 2012 and since then, I have been leading it. But I sure don’t do it alone. I have a number of amazing volunteers who help. This ministry would not be able to function if it was not for all the volunteers who donate their time. They are all a real blessing.

We try to organize the rooms in the Clothing Closet in such a way as to help it feel more like a shopping experience you would experience at a department store. The clothing is free. We do have limits as to how much they are able to take. Shoppers are allowed to visit every 30 days.

Finally, as to “Who makes it happen?” we want to give all the credit and glory to God! It is only as he provides clothing for us, and the strength to serve, that we are able to function. It is all based on his kindness and grace, and we want to dedicate it all to his praise! Freely we have received from him; freely we desire to give to others.